NEW YORK CITY – Commercial real estate has received an energy shot as the industry rushes to innovate the traditional antiquated process of architecture and design, motivated to attract and retain tenants in a world where customer experience and engagement are key to operational success, Thomas Vecchione, principal at architecture and design firm Vocon, tells GlobeSt.com.

"The stories we tell about a property to build or redevelop, someone won't live in 3 to 5 years from now. Then we've designed something people won't experience until later," he said.

Speed and acceleration in the industry have made five-year leases more common for square footage intended for a10-year lease. Time and velocity are forcing the CRE industry to innovate, and innovation doesn't have to mean taking on more risk, Vecchione said.

The general sentiment of the market is what will happen next, and with that mentality in mind, designing for younger generations from a future perspective can lead to the stockpile of bleeding-edge ideas, especially as technology remains a key driver in the real estate industry and core to lifestyle of the average end-user, having ideas stored and ready to test is essential, he added.

"Clients may not always be ready to test ideas, but they can support it enough for flexibility and further innovation," Vecchione said. "Stockpile innovation is about stockpiling innovative ideas, not creating risk, but sets up the property or business model so it is risk-averse and adaptable."

For instance, Vecchione cited empty storefronts along the Fifth Avenue corridor that are vacant amid a consistent flow of foot traffic. It's prime retail real estate that should have tenants but doesn't, which he attributes to the need for change. He said understanding the market and what will draw end-users on different time horizons could aid in attracting tenants and drawing customers.

"The industry as a whole and process is very static," he said. "There is a very structured way of thinking and real estate is evolving quickly. We have to change to adapt and move faster."

Instant Insights /

CRE Decision Makers Stockpile Ideas Amid Changing Investment Horizons

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